'He just raised his eyebrow' - how away team dressing room reacted to Cristiano Ronaldo's 'unbelievable' Man United debut

Everyone inside Old Trafford on a warm afternoon for the 2003/04 Premier League curtain-raiser knew they had witnessed the start of something special.

But few could have predicted the teenager who stepped onto the pitch for the final 30 minutes would go on to have a global impact on the game and take his place as one of the sport's greats. There had been a buzz around the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo that summer, his highlights extending to more than just those in his hair.

He'd torn United to shreds in a pre-season game playing for Sporting Lisbon, so much so that Sir Alex Ferguson refused to leave the stadium without securing the winger's signature. John O'Shea had been on the receiving end that night and sat next to Ronaldo on the bench at Old Trafford for the season opener.

ALSO READ: Neymar insists Ronaldo proven right over Saudi Arabia transfer theory

His talent was there for all to see, but it also needed honing. United did just that and within a couple of years the tricks and flicks had become consistent greatness.

The early signs were evident from the off. There were huge cheers as he replaced Nicky Butt. As the teenager entered the fray, Ferguson, in short sleeves, warmly applauded. One of his first forays forward saw him dance this way and that and into the box before slipping.

He was on the ground the next time he went into the area, this time pulled back by Kevin Nolan after Ronaldo's speed got him in behind the Bolton defence. Ruud van Nistelrooy missed the spot kick before Ryan Giggs netted his second, with Ronaldo playing a key role in the goal.

As United went four up, the teenager started to enjoy himself. His white boots a blur as, switching to the right, he tricked his way past opponents almost at